Update 11/24/19

Thanks to the observance of Tom C, I had inadvertently missed the leading number for the correct year. So I had to sand down the first stenciling and replace with the corrected tail numbers. Here are a few shots showing the template I made and the resulting re-stencil job. I had thought I needed to go with smaller 6” numbers, but decided to try the larger 8” numbers to see how they looked. I’m happy with the results.

I retouched some of the horizontal surfaces getting ready to attach for final assembly. Here are a few shots of the diorama base beginnings and a mock-up of the Control Tower with one of the vehicles represented. Lots more planned to be added. We shall see what develops.

MTC………James B

Update 12/07/19

After the last update, I started to apply the Star and Bar decals to the wings and fuselage. Major problem, they exploded once I tried to lift them on to the model.

Two options, Paint the Stars and Bars or order new decals. I have the stencils, but I do not have the correct color of the paint. I should point out that I do not trust the listed Vallejo equivalent for the color required.

I contacted Fundekals (http://www.fundekals.com/) and they were able to send some replacements in short order.

In the meantime, I have turned my attention to the construction of the Control Tower and the support vehicles.

Here is that article, https://imodeler.com/groups/imoder-at-the-movies-1964926360/forum/topic/the-day-the-music-died-part-3-the-diorama/

I’ll get back to the plane soon, I hope to post it assembled shortly.

MTC………James B

This is the stuff of legends ! You are really digging into the background for this one...

Sorry to hear about the trials and tribulations with the tail numbers first, and now the US Insignias. Perseverance is what will show you through. Many would have called it quits, but I am so happy that you are still moving along...

I have a few in my display case that have fought me every step of the way... You will be so proud of your work once you complete it, and it's just as much about learning the history behind the man and the aircraft, as it is the actual modeling experience for me. Finding these little nuggets of information like you have shown with the escape door / emergency exit documents, is what sets your build apart from others.

I'll be looking forward to seeing your next installment.

Lots of elbow grease and sweat going into this! Enjoying the journey with you...!

Update 12/15/19

The Fundekals decals arrived and I was able to move forward on the build. Overall I was pleased with the quality of the decals, although they seemed a little thick.

Here’s a few shots of the build so far. I did run into a slight problem with the wing struts. They’re alignment was less than desirable. I will have to scratch build them to suit.

Stay tuned.
MTC………James B

You are doing amazing things to that dogmeat kit (I had one, I tossed it), James. I really like what you have done.

Tom @tcinla & Erik @airbum, Thanks! That old saying about taking a sow's ear and turning it into a Silk Purse comes to mind, but with the limits of this kit, it ain't gonna happen. I'll do my best to get it close.

Cheers and Merry Christmas!